Benoit Pouliot had a very solid season for the Bruins statistically notching 16 goals while adding 16 assists in 74 games, but his inconsistency does not go unnoticed. Pouliot showed flashes of greatness scoring SportsCenter Top 10 type goals, but then would be invisible for the next five or six games. It was all about consistency with this man and he was not that consistent in 2012.

Pouliot was a plus-18 while on the ice and did have five game-winning goals for the Bruins, but again it came back to consistency. The former fourth overall pick was two different players this year and if he can play like he did when he was scoring miraculous goals, this left-winger can prove to be a weapon for the Bruins with the other fire power they have.

Final Grade: C+

Tim’s Turn:

I won’t bash Peter Chiarelli’s thinking when he signed Benoit Pouliot last offseason, despite the fact that Pouliot, a former top-five pick of the Minnesota Wild, had underachieved his entire career with the Wild and Habs. After all, it was viewed as a low risk, high reward type of deal when Pouliot was signed to a one-year deal worth $1.1 million and could have worked out as a cheaper version of Michael Ryder, another ex-Canadien.

Pouliot did set career highs in goals (16) and points (32) while also posting a couple of highlight reel goals. He also found himself on the third line for most of the year with Chris Kelly, Rich Peverley and Brian Rolston. But with young talent like Jordan Caron, Jared Knight and Ryan Spooner coming up in the system, it seemed Pouliot didn’t do enough to solidify a spot on the Black and Gold for the long term.

As an RFA, Pouliot could be brought back at the right price, but for not much more than his current $1.1 million salary. Chiarelli and company, however, might be wise to let Pouliot hit the market and continue his career elsewhere.

Grade: C-

Anthony’s Analysis:

I’ll have to agree with Chris and Tim here and say that Pouliot was very inconsistent throughout the year, but the former Hab did manage to have himself a pretty solid season. Pouliot showed signs of brilliance with some very pretty hardnosed goals. Then there were times where Pouliot would pull the disappearing act.

Pouliot gelled very well with Brian Rolston and Chris Kelly—two guys who may not be back next season— after Rolston was acquired at the trade deadline. I wouldn’t mind seeing Pouliot back in Boston next season as long as he comes in for right around the same cap hit of $1.1Million.

4 READERS COMMENTED

I think that actually this is the start of something better for Pouliot, if I were the Bruins I would sign him because he served a pretty good role with the Bruins on the fourth line. I think that he has an upside that is only now getting realized. Sure he sucked with the Wild and the Habs but he seems to have found a niche in Boston.
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Hmmm

June 18, 2012

Hmmm. Does no one blame him for the winning goal in the 7th game? He was suppose to clear the puck in the opposing zone so we can change lines. He failed. I don’t think that’s even worth 1.1 mil. I think we should let the Rookies have a shot. They will be less money and can probably produce the same or better results.
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Anthony

June 18, 2012

I wouldn’t put all the blame on Pouliot for Game 7, but without a doubt he should of got that puck in deep on the dump in. Now that they have brought back the entire fourth line and Kelly I dont expect Pouliot back in Boston next season.
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Hmmm

June 18, 2012

Oh no.. not all of the 7th game… Just the winning goal. Lol! I’m not saying he hasn’t made a few incredible plays this year for the Bruins. Probably the best he’s ever played. I just think he’s totally replaceable and we wouldn’t miss him and maybe save a few bucks. That’s all. Just my opinion.
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